Attorneys for the elderly handle a wide range of legal matters affecting the elderly or disabled. This includes concerns such as care planning, guardianship, retirement, Medicare, taxes, living wills, estate planning, and housing issues, among others. This is a new concept to many people, and it is actually a fairly new category in the legal field. If you’re new to the idea, you may be wondering why it’s important to find someone to represent you or your loved one.
Who are Elder Law Attorneys?
They must be licensed to practice in one or more states, have practiced for five years or more, and have completed 45 hours of continuing education in this area during the last three years to be certified by the National Elder Law Foundation for this type. practice They also have to pass a certification exam.
Do I really need one?
Senior Lawyers are good for people who need help navigating the extreme complexities of federal taxes, property matters, Medicare/Medicaid, and Social Security. Your attorney can help you advocate for the best next step, and can also make sure you’re taking that next step legally. They can also be a compassionate but not overly emotional advisor, helping to prepare trusts, wills, and end-of-life plans.
How do I choose the right person for my needs?
If you or your loved one has a specific case, such as age discrimination, disability, mental health issues, social security, or an abuse case, you may want to consider hiring someone who has experience in your area. If you are looking for a more general service, ask if they have had clients similar to you or your loved one. Ask them what results you can expect if you hire them, or how other cases similar to yours have turned out. You should also make sure they are very familiar with the statutes in your state, which usually change all the time. Finally, find out if they are members of any organizations that are specifically related to your needs.
How much is it going to cost me?
Rates can be assessed in many different ways. Ask in advance how much and how often you will be billed. Some will expect payment biweekly, others monthly, and others will request payment at the end of the job. Some charge a flat rate, while others will want to be paid by the hour and may also bill for paralegal or research hours. Also, ask about any incidental costs you may be charged, such as copies, postage, or court fees.
Once you choose one of the available elder law attorneys to represent you or your loved one, be sure to get your arrangement in writing so your mutual expectations are clearly spelled out. This is important because of the type of work you will be doing. You must feel comfortable with the person you have chosen to help navigate these difficult waters.